A traditional wood-burning fireplace requires regular cleaning to clear out the ash and carbon that have collected in the firebox and chimney. This can be tedious and costly at times, which is why many homeowners switch to gas fireplaces instead. But because they don’t burn wood, do gas fireplaces still need chimney cleaning? Batts’ Chimney Services answers this question and more here.
What You Should Know About a Gas Fireplace
Wood-burning fireplaces need to have their chimneys inspected and cleaned at least once a year because the soot and creosote produced from the carbon get stuck on the chimney walls. These products can build up over time and can cause damage to your chimney if not properly removed. This won’t be a problem with a gas fireplace because it only burns propane or natural gas to produce fire and heat. However, even if it doesn’t produce the same byproducts as wood, a gas fireplace can still deposit corrosive substances inside the chimney.
Why Gas Chimney Inspections and Cleaning Are Necessary
If your gas chimney isn’t properly cleaned, it can damage your chimney walls which often go unnoticed until the issue is too severe to ignore. This is why a thorough cleaning from a chimney repair and maintenance specialist is recommended even if you have a gas fireplace. A professional will also inspect your fireplace and chimney for the following signs of trouble and damage:
- Incomplete Combustion – This happens when there’s not enough air to create an adequate draft for combustion. Whether it’s due to lack of oxygen or low temperatures, the partial burning of fuel produces carbon monoxide that won’t easily be exhausted from the chimney. Only an experienced chimney professional can detect this and make the necessary repairs.
- Burner Issues – When gas fireplaces are used regularly, they become clogged and dirty, resulting in poor flame performance. The gas logs and burners can also deteriorate despite being made to last, which affects how the fireplace burns fuel. A faulty pilot light or any other burner-related problem must be addressed by a professional to ensure your gas fireplace is working properly and efficiently.
When you need an expert in gas fireplace inspection and chimney sweep services, there’s only one name to trust. Call Batts’ Chimney Services today at (205) 956-8207 if you’re in Jefferson County or (256) 660-1338 if you live in Northeast Alabama. You can also fill out our online contact form to schedule an appointment, so get in touch with us today.
